Jump Start Leader Job Description

Program Description

Jump Start

Consists of three programs – Ohana, Service, Leadership & Sustainability (SLS), and Steppin Out. The program provides a safe and interactive environment that eases the transition of new students into Opening Days. In addition, Jump Start provides leadership experience to explore vocation, personal growth, and shared decision making.

Ohana

Leaders of this program will assist primarily new multicultural students in learning about the WU campus and successful transition into a majority culture. Successful Ohana leaders are accommodating and willing to assist with cultural transitions, model academic success and be culturally sensitive. They must also enjoy working with new students and be open to sharing about their WU experiences.

Service, Leadership & Sustainability

Leaders of this program will develop the itinerary for the SLS experience and assist participants in contributing community service in Salem and the surrounding areas. They will also lead evening activities and reflection, encouraging students to bring meaning to their experiences and their role in the Salem community. Successful SLS leaders must enjoy doing service, facilitating reflection, engaging new students, and sharing their WU experiences.

Steppin’ Out

Leaders of this program will assist new students on day hikes that can average between 4-8 miles, round trip. Leaders will also help with a white-water rafting trip, explore the great outdoors, live with students, and be a positive role model. Successful Steppin’ Out leaders should be able to work with incoming students and be open to sharing their WU experiences. Applicants do not need a driver’s license or outdoor experience, although both are preferred.

Time Commitment

Jump Start leaders will participate in one (1) mandatory spring training session with all Jump Start leaders, unless they are abroad. Individual programs will have additional trainings during spring semester, referred to as spring training. All trainings will be held on the following dates:

Spring Training:

Dates TBD

Summer Training:

All Jumpstart leaders return to campus for summer training on a date to be determined. Training continues until the Jump Start programs begin.

Compensation

All meals and program costs will be covered from the beginning of training through the conclusion of the program.

Provide excellent customer service to new students and family members by communicating appropriate information

Assist new students in developing peer relationships, academic effectiveness, and personal adjustment to WU through positive interactions

Regularly interact and collaborate with all Jump Start leaders and administrators

Act in accordance with all Opening Days and Willamette regulations/policies once selected as a Jump Start leader

Follow all policies and protocols for transportation as outlined by the university

Additional responsibilities and qualifications

Ohana

Ability to develop programs and activities that focus on successful transition to university life for all new multicultural students

Ability to work collaboratively with campus offices and programs (e.g. Admissions, Athletics, CLA, International Education, Opening Days, Residence Life) to successfully welcome and orient all new students and their families to Willamette University

Serve as an academic resource

Participation in multicultural student organizations preferred

An understanding of racial identity and developmental issues preferred

Service, Leadership & Sustainability

Prior knowledge and experience with reflection and discussion is preferred

General understanding of volunteer management

Introduce students to the Salem community through service activities

Collaborate with community partner sites to create meaningful, creative service projects

Develop and facilitate meaningful and creative reflection sessions

Steppin’ Out

Possess or obtain current CPR/First Aid certification by August 2017

Knowledge of Oregon and trail sites located within 100 miles of Salem is preferred

Ability to lead and follow appropriate outdoor protocols

Awareness of group dynamics

Qualification Standards

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment in a high profile position

Excel as a team player while maintaining a high energy level, enthusiasm and stamina when working long days

Effective interpersonal communication

Demonstrate familiarity with WU resources and services

Ability to facilitate small and large group discussions, activities, and reflection

Possess a high level of maturity and an ability to use independent judgment